Tickling leads to assault charge

Published 3:48 pm, Monday, January 6, 2014

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A Darien couple is facing charges after a tickle fight ended in a physical confrontation, police said.

Saireh Lutkins, 23, of 91R Noroton Ave., was arrested Jan. 5 on charges of disorderly conduct and third-degree assault. Rickie Carter, 28, also of 91R Noroton Ave., was arrested on a charge of disorderly conduct.

Lutkins reported the incident at the Darien police station at 5 a.m. She said she was asleep in their bedroom with her 5-month-old when Carter started tickling her feet, according to the report.

Lutkins said she was annoyed and flailed her arms in an attempt to stop Carter, during which time she scratched his face, police said. She told police Carter started smashing items in the house, such as a television and their entertainment center, according to the report. Police reported seeing broken glass in the home.

According to the report, Carter admitted to tickling Lutkins' feet, but said it wasn't malicious. He told police that in addition to scratching his face, Lutkins hit his elbow and the palm of his left hand with a 2-foot wooden club and hit his left arm, said police, who saw physical evidence on Carter that confirmed his claims. Carter declined medical treatment, according to police.

Lutkins was released on a promise to appear in court and Carter posted $5,000 bond. Both were scheduled to appear in court Jan. 6.

Additionally, according to Darien police, Carter had violated probation in Stamford for not appearing for a court-mandated program and was arrested. He was released on $10,000 bond for that charge.